New Chief Executive for Acas

Tuesday 13 November 2012

Anne Sharp is announced today as the new Chief Executive for Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service). Anne joins Acas from the Judicial Office, an associated office of the Ministry of Justice.

Ed Sweeney, Chair of Acas, said:

"I am absolutely delighted that Anne will be joining Acas. Her energy, drive and commitment will ensure Acas moves forward with our major new projects, including the delivery of Early Conciliation in 2014."

Anne added:

"I have long admired the work of Acas, and am excited to be joining it at this time of change. It's important that Acas continues to build its influence and maintains its reputation as a source of independent, impartial and trusted employment relations expertise."

Notes to Editors

Anne Sharp began her civil service career as an inspector in the Health and Safety Executive, before working on risk management policy in industries including railways, nuclear weapons, construction and offshore oil and gas. She then moved to Defra where she led fisheries management policy before becoming Director of National Climate Change and Energy. She has been at the Judicial Office as Chief Executive Officer since 2009, leading a team which supports judges and magistrates around the country.

Acas' current Chief Executive John Taylor has been in post since 2001 and is retiring in January 2013. Anne will join Acas in the same month to ensure a smooth handover.

Acas' aim is to improve organisations and working life through better employment relations. It provides information, advice, training and a range of services working with employers and employees to prevent or resolve problems and improve performance. Acas is an independent and impartial statutory body governed by a council made up of members from business, trade unions, academia and the law.